European Union cities are required to create ‘noise maps’ and strategic plans for reducing environmental noise.

Tallinn, Estonia is implementing a “noise reduction action plan” aimed at reducing unwanted noise in public spaces. According to an article in Smart Cities World, “As part of the plan, the city will strengthen its public transport network, build more sidewalks, and expand segregated cycling lanes.”
Close to half of Tallinn’s population experiences excessive noise. “According to a study by the University of Tartu, reducing average road traffic noise below 50 decibels (dB) citywide could prevent 140 stroke cases and 130 cases of ischemic heart disease annually.”
In 2022, the city created a ‘noise map’ indicating the most noise-heavy neighborhoods. The action plan focuses on encouraging more sustainable mobility and reducing the number of large vehicles on the city’s roads. “The city is investing in better roads, tram lines, and public transport corridors while also protecting green areas from noise pollution and improving sound insulation for noise-sensitive buildings.”
European Union cities with populations of over 100,000 are tasked by law with creating noise maps and action plans.
FULL STORY: Tallinn implements noise reduction action plan

Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

Ken Jennings Launches Transit Web Series
The Jeopardy champ wants you to ride public transit.

Driving Equity and Clean Air: California Invests in Greener School Transportation
California has awarded $500 million to fund 1,000 zero-emission school buses and chargers for educational agencies as part of its effort to reduce pollution, improve student health, and accelerate the transition to clean transportation.

Congress Moves to End Reconnecting Communities and Related Grants
The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee moved to rescind funding for the Neighborhood Equity and Access program, which funds highway removals, freeway caps, transit projects, pedestrian infrastructure, and more.

From Throughway to Public Space: Taking Back the American Street
How the Covid-19 pandemic taught us new ways to reclaim city streets from cars.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Heyer Gruel & Associates PA
Ada County Highway District
Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS)
City of Grandview
Harvard GSD Executive Education
Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions
Salt Lake City
NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service